How does scan time change as slice thickness increases?

When slice thickness increases, the scan time typically does not change. This relationship is due to the way imaging systems are designed and how they operate during data acquisition. When a thicker slice is chosen, more tissue is encompassed in each slice, but the fundamental principles of data capture and how the system sets parameters for acquiring the images remain consistent.

In many imaging modalities, such as MRI or CT, the scan time is primarily influenced by other factors, including the speed of the gantry rotation, the imaging protocol settings, and the number of slices being acquired, rather than just the slice thickness alone. Therefore, regardless of whether the slice thickness is increased or decreased, the time it takes for the system to complete a scan remains relatively stable provided other parameters remain constant.

This understanding highlights the importance of considering the broader context of imaging parameters and how they collectively impact scan time, rather than isolating slice thickness as the sole determinant.